Which sources are currently used for permanent implants in brachytherapy?

Prepare for the Medical Dosimetry Certification Test with comprehensive flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ensure your success by studying key topics covered in the exam!

The use of 125I (Iodine-125) and 103Pd (Palladium-103) seeds in permanent brachytherapy implants is well-established due to their specific physical and biological properties. These isotopes have optimal half-lives and radiation characteristics that allow for effective treatment of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer.

Iodine-125 has a half-life of about 59 days, emitting low-energy photons which provides localized radiation with minimal collateral damage to surrounding tissues. Similarly, Palladium-103 with a shorter half-life of about 17 days offers a slightly more intense dose of radiation but still maintains a focused treatment area. Both sources are designed to remain in the body permanently, gradually delivering radiation to the tumor over time to control its growth.

The other options include isotopes like Co-60, Cs-137, Iridium-192, and Iodine-131, which are not typically used for permanent brachytherapy implants. Co-60 and Cs-137 are frequently used for external beam radiation therapy rather than as permanent implants. Iridium-192 is primarily used in temporary brachytherapy applications due to its short half-life, making it unsuitable for permanent implantation. Lastly, Iodine-131 is

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